From fairs to baseball, people are trying to stay cool

2014-07-26T00:07:35Z2014-08-24T23:54:05Z

PLATTE COUNTY, MO (KCTV) -

With the extremely hot temperatures, people who are out and about are taking added precautions.

At the Platte County Fair there are icy cold beverages to enjoy along with the state fair staple of turkey legs and one man stood over a smoker in the heat all day so people could enjoy the meaty treat.

While fair goers make their way through rides and games in the weather that includes 100 plus heat indexes, Garvey says he works in an environment that triples that temperature.

"That's the firebox. When it gets low on temps, you just throw more wood in there. I do that about every 30 minutes," he said.

Keeping the fire cooking just right makes sure the family's Redd's Rub recipe for smoked brisket, turnkey and pulled pork are cooked to perfection.

Garvey said he's drinking a lot of water to stay hydrated with such a hot job, but sometimes even that's not enough.

"I had to go home mid-day to take a cold shower and cool off my core. I was done with this heat," he said.

The Platte County Fair is open Friday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday. For those who feel like they're getting too hot, there are three air-conditioned buildings, a cooling and misting tent and the health department will pass out free water.

Royals fans are also trying to beat the heat and the club is accommodating them by allowing them to bring their own water to Friday night's game against the Indians.

Those in charge at Kauffman Stadium said they go through 250 gallons of water during games played in the extreme heat.

Russell Austin and his friends came down early to tailgate in the sweltering sun.

"I don't know, it's hot, but we're just enjoying it. There's a good breeze and good company so I can't complain much," Josh Willcockson said.

"I try to do three beers and one water or something like that to stay hydrated. It's a good time, that's what we do," Russell said.

University of Kansas Hospital medical staff were in the parking lots and stands in case anyone drinks too much or becomes dehydrated.

"Rotate with water between alcohol, water, caffeine, water because alcohol and caffeine can speed up the process of dehydration," David Smith with the University of Kansas Hospital said.

Fans can take one unopened liter of water or Gatorade into the stadium and stadium officials said they make that decision depending on how hot the day is.

Health officials say there are symptoms you need to watch out for to make sure you're not out in the heat too long.

Camps in the hands, calves and feet as well as tense muscles can be a sign of heat cramps.

Heat exhaustion manifests as fatigue, nausea, headaches, confusion and anxiety, dizziness and fainting. This needs to be addressed, but is not life-threatening.

Heat stroke is more serious. Seek immediate care for anyone who loses consciousness, has a very fast or very slow heartbeat, convulsions or drenching sweats with clammy skin.